Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread Recipe
If you have a soft spot for garlic bread but crave something a little more indulgent and exciting, let me introduce you to this delightful twist: Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread. Imagine fluffy buns generously filled with a luscious, slightly sweet cream cheese mixture, kissed by the savory richness of garlic butter and topped with a bubbly layer of melted cheese. This treat is like a warm, comforting hug wrapped in buttery garlic flavor, balanced perfectly with just a hint of sweetness that makes every bite irresistible. Once you try Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread, it might just become your new favorite comfort snack or appetizer to impress friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe might sound fancy, but the ingredients are refreshingly simple and each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the soft buns that cradle the filling to the blend of aromatic herbs and spices, every component adds love to this dish.
- Soft buns: Use large, fluffy buns like brioche or hamburger buns for that soft, pillowy base that soaks up all the flavors.
- Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy filling.
- Greek yogurt: Added to thin out the cream cheese and lend a slight tanginess.
- Sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to bring out the subtle sweetness that contrasts with the garlic.
- Black pepper: For a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky essence without overpowering it.
- Cayenne powder (optional): Adds a subtle warming heat if you like a bit of spice.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a hint of grassy freshness and color.
- Green onions (scallions): Thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor and crunch.
- Melted butter: Use unsalted to better control seasoning in the garlic butter sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to infuse the butter sauce with bold aromatic flavor.
- Egg white: Helps the garlic butter mixture cling perfectly to the buns.
- Cheese: Mozzarella or Parmesan give a melty, savory finish on top.
How to Make Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread
Step 1: Preparing the Buns
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully make slits in each bun about three-quarters of the way down, not slicing all the way through. Depending on the size of your buns, aim for anywhere between six to eight slits. This will create perfect pockets to stuff and allow the flavors to mingle beautifully without the bun falling apart.
Step 2: Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling
Now for the star filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sea salt, sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne powder (if using), chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Then, add the Greek yogurt to loosen the mixture slightly and give it a luscious, creamy texture that’s easy to pipe into the buns.
Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, sea salt, minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, and egg white. The egg white acts as a glue here, helping the garlic butter stick beautifully to the buns during baking, infusing them with that irresistible garlicky aroma.
Step 4: Assembling the Bread
Divide your cream cheese filling in half and gently pipe or spoon it into the slits of each bun, finishing with a dollop in the center for extra indulgence. Next, carefully dip the top of each filled bun into the garlic butter mixture, coating it generously. Place the buns seam side up on the prepared baking sheet, then sprinkle a generous amount of your chosen cheese on top to create a golden, melty crust once baked.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye out for the cheese melting into bubbly golden perfection and the buns taking on a slight golden hue at the edges. When you pull these out of the oven, your kitchen will smell like a cozy little bakery filled with garlic dreams.
How to Serve Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread
Garnishes
Serve this Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread warm to keep the buns soft and the cheese gooey. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness, making it look as delightful as it tastes. If you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of honey or even a touch of chili flakes can elevate the flavors further.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a range of Korean street food favorites or comforting noodle dishes. Think crispy corn dogs, spicy hellamyeon noodles, or a rich bowl of jjajangmyeon for a full Korean-inspired feast. For a more Western touch, serve alongside carbonara or creamy rice cakes for a truly hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is an eye-catching appetizer all on its own, but you can jazz it up on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy soy glaze. Cutting the buns into smaller portions makes them perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks. You can also toast individual slits under the broiler briefly post bake for a slightly crispier bite if you prefer a contrast in textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be tough!), place them in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to three days. The buns will lose some of their initial softness but remain quite enjoyable, especially when reheated.
Freezing
I don’t generally recommend freezing Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread because the texture of the buns and the cream cheese filling can change, becoming less pleasant after thawing. You’re best off enjoying these freshly baked for the ultimate experience.
Reheating
To warm up the leftovers, simply microwave them for 30 to 40 seconds until heated through. Just a heads-up: the cream cheese filling may ooze slightly upon reheating, but the delicious flavor remains just as wonderful.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought buns?
Absolutely! While homemade buns are lovely, store-bought soft dinner or hamburger buns work perfectly, saving you time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What type of cheese should I use on top?
Mozzarella is great for its melty, gooey texture, but Parmesan or Parmigiano-Reggiano offer a sharper, nuttier flavor if you prefer something a little more savory.
Is the filling very sweet?
Nope! The sweetness is subtle, designed to balance the saltiness and garlic notes, not overpower them. It’s just enough to give the bread a lovely depth and complexity.
Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. Just bring it back to room temperature before piping.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, a splash of whole milk or sour cream can work in a pinch, but Greek yogurt adds the best tang and texture for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread a try because it’s a total game-changer for anyone who loves garlic bread with a twist. The soft buns, savory cream cheese, and rich garlic butter combine into a bite that feels like a special occasion every time. Perfect as a cozy snack or an impressive appetizer, this recipe will be your go-to when you want something comforting, delicious, and just a little unexpected. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread recipe features soft, fluffy buns filled with a savory, slightly sweet cream cheese filling, complemented by a rich garlic butter topping. A popular Korean street food, it skillfully balances sweet and salty flavors, making it a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
Soft Buns
- 2 large soft buns (brioche or hamburger style)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- pinch of cayenne powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon sliced green onion (scallions)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted melted butter (omit sea salt if using salted butter)
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg white
- 2 tablespoons grated mozzarella cheese or Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Buns: Using a sharp serrated knife, make slits in each bun about three-quarters of the way down without cutting all the way through. Depending on the bun size, divide into 6 or 8 sections. Set aside.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sea salt, granulated sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne powder, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. Mix well until evenly incorporated. Add Greek yogurt and mix until smooth. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl large enough to hold the bun, mix melted butter, sea salt, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and egg white until combined.
- Assemble Filling: Carefully pipe the cream cheese filling into each slit of the buns, dividing it evenly. Finish by adding a small dollop of filling in the center of each bun.
- Dip and Season: Dip the tops of the filled buns into the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the tops of the buns.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the buns are lightly golden and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- If you don’t have a piping bag, a food-safe plastic bag with a corner cut off or a spatula to spread the filling works well.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; avoid freezing to preserve texture.
- Reheat in the microwave for 30-40 seconds; note the cream cheese filling may ooze slightly when reheated.
- Use unsalted butter for the garlic butter to control saltiness precisely; if using salted butter, omit additional sea salt.
- Feel free to swap mozzarella cheese with Parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano for varied flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian, Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 567 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: Korean cream cheese garlic bread, Korean garlic bread recipe, cream cheese buns, Korean street food, garlic butter bread, soft buns with cream cheese
